Nuclear plant shut down after tornado

April 18, 2011

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Dominion Virginia Power reported that an apparent tornado touched down April 16 on the switchyard supporting Surry Power Station and the facility's access road, and cut off the electrical feed from the grid to the station. An off-site power source has been restored to each unit.

Both pressurized water reactors at the station shut down automatically as designed and back-up diesel generators started immediately to provide electricity necessary to maintain both units in a safe and stable condition.

No release of radioactive material has occurred beyond those minor releases associated with normal station operations. These minor releases are below federally approved operating limits, and pose no threat to station workers or the public. The apparent tornado did not strike the two nuclear units.

Dominion notified the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission of this unusual situation, as well as state and local officials.